Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 69-80 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 69 Feature Review Open Access Poplar Genome Analysis and Functional Gene Annotation and Verification Xiaojing Yang, Yuxin Zhu Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: yuxin.zhu@cuixi.org Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.2 doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0008 Received: 13 Feb., 2024 Accepted: 15 Mar., 2024 Published: 23 Mar., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Yang and Zhu, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Yang X.J., and Zhu Y.X., 2024, Poplar genome analysis and functional gene annotation and verification, Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 14(2): 69-80 (doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0008) Abstract This study explores poplar gene annotation techniques, including methods for annotating functional genes, challenges in annotation accuracy, and advances in computational tools for genome annotation. Through specific case studies, key functional genes in poplar are analyzed, and their functions are experimentally verified, with comparative analyses conducted against gene function studies in model plants. Functional genomics plays a critical role in poplar research, involving the use of gene knockout and overexpression studies to verify gene functions, and the integration of transcriptomic and proteomic data to support gene annotation. Insights from the poplar genome are also applied in biotechnological and environmental management, such as improving wood quality and growth rates, enhancing stress resistance and phytoremediation capabilities, and developing poplar breeding programs. Emerging genomic technologies such as CRISPR and other genome editing tools are revolutionizing approaches to studying the poplar genome. This research aims to advance poplar genomics studies, providing scientific support for sustainable forestry. Keywords Poplar; Gene annotation; Functional genomics; Biotechnology; Sustainable forestry 1 Introduction Poplar trees (Populus L.), belonging to the genus Populus, are of immense significance in both forestry and biotechnological applications. They are widely cultivated for their rapid growth, ease of vegetative propagation, and small genome size, making them ideal for genetic studies and biotechnological interventions (Confalonieri et al., 2003; Brunner et al., 2004). Poplars provide a range of ecological services, including carbon sequestration, bioremediation, and habitat provision, which are crucial for maintaining ecological balance. Additionally, they are valuable for the forest products industry, contributing to the production of timber, pulp, and paper, and are increasingly recognized for their potential in renewable energy production (Chen et al., 2023). The ability to genetically engineer poplars to enhance traits such as pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, and wood quality further underscores their importance in forestry and biotechnology. The sequencing of the poplar genome has marked a significant milestone in plant genomics, providing a comprehensive resource for understanding the genetic basis of various traits in trees (Brunner et al., 2004; Tuskan et al., 2004). The U.S. Department of Energy's initiative to sequence the Populus trichocarpa genome has enabled researchers to compare the genetic makeup of perennial trees with annual plants, offering insights into tree-specific genetic programs. The availability of extensive expressed sequence tags (ESTs) and full-length cDNA sequences has facilitated the annotation of the poplar genome, allowing for the identification of genes involved in critical processes such as cellulose biosynthesis, secondary xylem formation, and defense against biotic stress (Joshi et al., 2004; Ralph et al., 2008). These genomic resources have also paved the way for the development of functional genomics tools, such as cDNA microarrays, to study gene expression in response to environmental stimuli. This study utilizes extensive genomic data to analyze the genetic mechanisms behind key traits of poplar trees such as growth, development, and stress responses. It also explores the potential applications of these findings in improving poplar genotypes for use in forestry and biotechnology, to address challenges such as climate change and sustainable forest management. The research aims to advance poplar breeding programs and the sustainable management of forest resources.
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